Coleman confirmed as new Wales boss

Chris Coleman was confirmed as the new manager of Wales on Thursday, replacing Gary Speed following his tragic death last November.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) said in a statement on its website that Coleman, a close friend and former international team-mate of Speed, was the logical choice to build on the work of his late predecessor.

"All along we believe that we have been respectful and dignified and had no wish to be involved in a public debate on the appointment of Gary's successor," FAW chief executive Jonathan Ford said.

"Gary was the manager of Welsh football and of course we want to continue his legacy. He was not a figurehead, he was the manager and that is why we have decided on the appointment of Chris Coleman to build on the excellent foundations put in place by Gary."